The Pony Club Festival is a biennial event that has been running since 1975. Held at the State Equestrian Centre, it is an action packed two days of equestrian activities including dressage, jumping, hacking, games, fancy dress, bareback riding and barrel racing. Aimed at grass roots riders, for many young pony club members it is their first ‘real’ show!

This year there were 145 riders take part and the highlight over the weekend wasn't seeing the winners but watching riders having a go, appreciating the experience, reaching their own goal or perhaps receiving an unexpected prize. The looks on many of the kids’ faces was priceless. 

The parents also enjoyed the weekend, many were like sponges learning all about each discipline and in lots of cases were more nervous than the competitors!

Saturday night highlights included a Vaulting Display by Kay Fowler and her team of riders and the highly contested Jackpot Barrel Race to music in the indoor arena.

PCAWA thanks their officials, parents and volunteers who put in a huge effort all weekend as well as Festival committee members Jacqui Moon, Wanda Longley and Emily Lanman.

The event would not have been possible without sponsors: Healthway – Go For 2&5, Mrs Jean Lishman, Cavalletti Classifieds, Westcourt Chartered Accountants, AK Evans Earthmoving  and Shauna/Frank Alban (MLA).

After a weekend such as this with all the comradery shown, team spirit, learning achieved, horsemastership and competition it is a reminder of what Pony Club is all about and what a valuable organisation it is to the equestrian community!